
Governor Janet T. Mills (D), Addresses the 200 or so at the First Annual Housing Summit at Ocean Gateway, Portland, Last Month. (Please visit post Herein Dated March 26, 2024 for More Information on the Summit).
Governor Janet T. Mills (D) today promoted Maine as one of the top destinations to witness the once-in-a-generation event and urged eclipse viewers to plan ahead so they can safely enjoy it. This promotion of a historic total solar eclipse is just one week away.
On Monday, April 8, the moon will pass between the earth and the sun, completely blocking the face of the sun from the earth. For nearly half of Maine, the total eclipse will be visible for up to three-and-a half minutes – one of the longest totality observation times in North America.
“Maine is the best place in New England and one of the best places in North America to witness the historic solar eclipse. If you’re planning travel anywhere in Maine on April 8th, now is the time to make plans so that you can safely and enjoyably experience this historic event,” said Governor Janet Mills. “We recommend watchers arrive early and stay late, stick to paved roads, have a full tank of gas, pack a paper map, bring plenty of snacks and water and, of course, wear appropriate eye protection. By taking these common sense steps, you can ensure that you and your family are able to safely enjoy this incredible event.” Governor Mills’ statement was made at the Versant Power Astronomy Center and Maynard Plaanetarium at the University of Maine. where a discussion about state preparations was conducted with state offiials and the Governor. She urged visitors to plan ahead to ensure they will be ready to safely enjoy the event.
‘We welcome viistors to our state and hope that tourists and Maners alike will keep safetty at the forefront of the eclipse endeavor. Check the weather, dress appropriately for the forecast and have emergency supplies in your vehicle,” advised MEMA director Pete Rogers.
Maine is one of just thirteen US states where the total solar elipse will be visible and offers more opportunities to view the eclipse than any other state in the region. Parts of northern and western Maine will be in the path of totality for the eclipse, although more than 90% of the event will be visible in all parts of the state according to the press release issued from the Governor’s office today.
Governor Mills, the first woman governor of Maine, announced that the State has launched an online Eclipse Hub that contains safety and travel information for anyone planning to view the eclipse in Maine. It can be found at: http://www.maine.gov/eclipse 2024.
Incidentaally, in today’s “USA Today” newspaper there is a front page article stating that this eclipse will give scientists an opportunity to study “odd” animal reactions to the eclipse. The article, “Eciipse Gives Researchers Chance to Add to What we Know of Odd Animal Reactions,” claims that “Flamingos gathered in a circle around their babies to protet them. Griffes began galloping around their enclosures. Swarms of birds large enough to appear on radar suddenly left the sky and roosted in trees.” These unusal behaviors were observed at global zoos during previous eclipses. .